What condition is associated with a Hasty pulse?

The Hasty pulse, or "急脈" (Ji Mai), is characterized by its rapid and potentially chaotic rhythm. This pulse is typically associated with conditions of extreme heat or a deficiency of Heart Qi. In the context of traditional Chinese medicine, extreme heat can cause excessive movement within the body, leading to a rapid pulse as the body attempts to expel this intense heat. Conditions such as high fever or excessive emotional stress can also contribute to this pulse pattern, indicating an overstimulated Heart.

When considering Heart Qi deficiency, the Hasty pulse reflects a disarray in the body's energy due to the Heart's inability to properly function, often seen in severe cases. A weakened Heart may struggle to circulate blood efficiently, resulting in the rapid, yet weak, pulse associated with this deficiency.

This understanding of the Hasty pulse as it relates to extreme heat or Heart Qi deficiency is crucial in traditional Chinese medicine practice, where pulse diagnosis plays a significant role in identifying underlying patterns of disharmony and guiding treatment.